AP English Language and Composition Ultimate Guide (copy)

Claim

The central argument or assertion being made, which should be clear, focused, and debatable.

Characteristics of a Strong Claim

Debatable, specific, arguable, and aligned with the prompt.

Reasoning

The logical connection or explanation that links evidence to a claim, explaining why the evidence supports the claim.

Types of Reasoning

Causal reasoning, comparative reasoning, deductive reasoning, and inductive reasoning.

Evidence

Information or data that supports a claim and makes it believable; should be relevant, credible, and sufficient.

Characteristics of Strong Evidence

Relevant, credible, sufficient, and specific.

Effective Communication

Organizing information for a specific audience by considering their background, knowledge level, and preferences.

Counterargument

An opposing viewpoint that challenges the main claim or thesis of a piece of writing.

Rhetorical Appeals

Logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) used to persuade an audience.

Thesis Statement

A clear, concise statement presenting the main argument or claim of an essay.

Introduction

The opening section of an essay that sets the stage for the argument by providing background information and stating the thesis.

Conclusion

The closing section of an essay that revisits the main argument and reflects on its significance.

Complex Argument

An argument that acknowledges counterarguments and incorporates credible evidence and reasoning.

Bias

A tendency or inclination toward or against something or someone that can influence interpretation.

Diction

The author's choice of words that reflects tone and appeals to the audience.

Syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases to create meaning, flow, and rhythm in writing.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses to create mental pictures or emotional responses.

Figurative Language

Non-literal language used to enrich meaning, including metaphors, similes, and personification.

Pacing

How quickly or slowly the writer moves the narrative or argument along, controlled by sentence length and structure.

Voice

The distinct personality or style of the writer, created through tone, diction, and syntax.

Rhetorical Analysis

Examining how an author uses stylistic choices and rhetorical appeals to achieve their purpose.

Supporting Evidence

Information and data used to back up a claim or argument, providing credibility.

Nuance

The complexity and subtlety in arguments that acknowledges multiple perspectives.

Precision in Language

Using clear, specific language to avoid ambiguity and strengthen an argument.